Saunders Competitive Sustainability Center co-hosts Circular Innovation Symposium in Laos, with U.S. State Department
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) made waves at the Second Annual Symposium on Accelerating Science, Technology, and Circular Innovation in Southeast Asia, held in Vientiane, Laos, from July 17-19. Co-hosted by RIT's Saunders College of Business, USASCP, and ASU, the event brought together experts to discuss smart cities, biotechnology, and circular entrepreneurship.
Professor Clyde Eirikur Hull, director of Saunders College of Business' Competitive Sustainability Center at RIT, joined program administrator Mihloti Williams, program manager (and Saunders alum) Khant Oak Soe, and visiting professor Israa Ameen Thiab in Laos. Professor Eric Williams of RIT's Golisano Institute of Sustainability presented his work on the material flow of used electronics in the ASEAN.
Significant credit for this impactful event goes to Helen Santiago Fink, Program Manager at the U.S. Department of State, who not only played a pivotal role in orchestrating the symposium but also delivered insightful opening remarks.
A key focus of the symposium was circular entrepreneurship, spearheaded by RIT's Professor Clyde Eiríkur Hull. His presentation highlighted the institute’s commitment to fostering circular economy and outlined plans for future business pitch competitions centered around this theme.
Visiting Assistant Professor Israa Thiab delved deeper into the specifics of the circular textile industry, providing valuable insights for attendees.
RIT’s network of university and business incubators also took center stage. Farah Larrisa from Kampoeng Dolanan Community shared her successful application of RIT’s training and unveiled a new business idea: transforming waste cooking oil into candles.
Strategy First University showcased their progress on a circular-themed business competition in Burma, demonstrating the growing momentum of circular entrepreneurship in the region.
The National University of Laos, a symposium partner, discussed how circular entrepreneurship principles are being integrated into their existing projects.
Beyond entrepreneurship, the symposium covered a broad spectrum of topics, including education and training, circular economy innovation, and climate resilience.
RIT faculty also contributed significantly to the symposium's academic depth. Professor Eric Williams from the Golisano Institute for Sustainability delved into the critical issue of e-waste, presenting his research on material flow analysis and circularity within the ASEAN region.
Professors Clyde Eiríkur Hull and Riccardo Corrado offered valuable insights into the intricate relationship between digitalization and the circular economy, emphasizing the importance of technological advancements in driving sustainable practices.
In addition to the main conference, RIT held several debriefing and networking sessions with its partners to assess the progress of current initiatives and explore opportunities for improvement.
The symposium was a significant event, attended by distinguished guests including Heather Variava, the U.S. Ambassador to Laos, and Michelle Y. Outlaw, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Vientiane Embassy, who both delivered remarks.
This event underscores RIT’s dedication to driving positive change in Southeast Asia. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the symposium has laid the groundwork for a more sustainable future for the region.
